James Harden vs. Gerald Henderson: Henderson had a big game Saturday – 23 points, eight rebounds and five assists. Harden had a bigger one against Cleveland – 37 points to make the Rockets 3-0 while Dwight Howard sat out with an ankle injury.

Observations

• Howard has been resting a sore ankle after having a cyst and fluid removed from the joint. He practiced Friday, but he did not play against the Cavaliers. So it’s unclear whether he’ll play versus the Bobcats.
• Indiana Pacers coach Frank Vogel recently compared Bobcats center Al Jefferson to Rockets coach Kevin McHale. Certainly there are similarities, as far as a multitude of post moves and ball fakes McHale had as a player. McHale tutored Jefferson when Jefferson played for the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Tap-ins

• The Rockets have a real luxury in being able to turn to center Omer Asik when Howard is hurt. The Rockets considered trading Asik, but never found the right deal
• In the first meeting between these teams, the season-opener, Howard matched his career high with 26 rebounds.

Did you know?

Jefferson is the only player in the Eastern Conference averaging at least 20 points and 10 rebounds this season.